Rasor Park
Rasor Park Bike Trail
One of Eugene’s most celebrated characteristics is its extensive bicycle trail system. Perhaps the most scenic and enjoyable bike path is the West Bank Trail, which runs adjacent to the Willamette River all the way from Whiteaker near downtown to Santa Clara. Those commuting on this well-maintained and popular path may easily take the scenery for granted and overlook the numerous pit-stops along the way. Rasor Park is one such stop where a sign advertises use of the land as a doggy rest area, and complimentary plastic cleanup baggies are available. A “Park Rules” sign’s words have been worn away and are illegible, but the area is open from 6am to 11pm and dogs must be leashed at all times.
Managed as a natural area by the city, the park does not boast any play equipment, restrooms or potable running water. It does, however, provide a lovely space to escape the pavement, especially for anyone walking with children or dogs. Wildflowers speckle the expansive wild grasses and a handful of large trees are established here. If you did not know this place were managed as a separate park, you may think it were simply an extension of the West Bank
Rasor Park doggie rest area
Trail system meant to serve as a natural buffer between the bike path and River Road. If you regularly whiz up or down the bike path, make a note to look around at mile post 0.5 and take a break here on the park’s bench to enjoy the sound and sight of the river. While undeveloped, an obvious path system has been cleared for visitors walking from River Road to the path, and from the park’s southern end to its northern boundary. On a typical afternoon, expect to see women pushing strollers through here, as well as elderly couples walking together, and lots of dog owners, especially those training their puppies to walk on the leash.
To access Rasor Park by car, the easiest way is to head east on Stults Avenue from River Road to its end and find a legal place to park. Watch for cyclists exiting and entering the trail system! You must walk the rest of the way, the equivalent of about a block, south on the bike path, and the park is on your right. As a sign here reminds us, remember to pick up after your canine companions.
Article and photos by Lauren L. Zavrel